Tackle master Manuel Ugarte excited for Old Trafford debut

Manuel Ugarte joined Manchester United from Ligue 1 club Paris St Germain. The Uruguay international signed a contract until June 2029, with an option to extend for a further year. Last season Ugarte, 23, won the league and cup double with Paris Saint-Germain before playing every game at Copa América and being named in the team of the tournament, taking his tally of international caps to 22.

Since the start of the 2022/23 season, Ugarte has averaged the second highest number of tackles per 90 minutes in Europe’s major leagues.

This week, Showmax brings you an interview with the Red Devils new midfielder, as he chats about his excitement at joining United as well as his ambitions moving forward with the English giants.

How does it feel to be a Manchester United player?

The reality is that it’s a dream come true, it seriously is. I’m very happy because it’s been a very long process and now I know that it’s done and dusted I am absolutely delighted and very happy indeed.

When the opportunity arose to join the club, what convinced you to make the move?

Well, first and foremost it’s the history, because we all know what a massive club United is, one of the best teams in the world. And I also spoke a lot with Facu Pellistri and he told me all about everything, the atmosphere that’s generated. The match day atmosphere that builds up at Old Trafford is incredible. And so yes, I am really excited.

What excites you most about joining this club?

Firstly, being part of where so many football legends have played from the history of the game and I’d love to experience United’s legendary stadium and feel the presence of the supporters.

What do you know about your teammates?

I’ve watched a few games since the news started coming out. I’ve also spoken to one or two players. I spoke to Bruno (Fernandes) and Licha (Lisandro Martinez) and I have chatted quite a lot, so yes, I am really thrilled, and more than anything, eager and excited, while I obviously realise that this is a great responsibility and I am prepared for that.

How would you describe yourself as a footballer?

I feel very comfortable when it comes to winning the ball back, and now I’m looking forward to doing it right here.

You made the most tackles for PSG in Ligue 1 last season. So that’s a particular strength of yours. Can fans expect to see you doing that on a regular basis here as well?

Yes, they can, because as I say, it’s something I do as a rule and it’s part and parcel of my game and it’s something I do quite naturally and so let's hope that continues to work well at Old Trafford and in the Premier League too of course, but I just can’t wait.

But you like to be on the ball as well, you like to pass the ball. It’s not just all about the tackling and winning the ball back?

For sure, I like to think that I’m pretty much an all-around player in that sense. I feel that I’m decent at winning the ball back, but that I can also be very good in possession too. Of course, there are things that I can improve on but what better place to be doing that then here?

How excited are you to get started?

I am so excited to play at Old Trafford and see the fans, and thank you for all the messages and the support.

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